The Bureau of Meteorology has confirmed that the heatwave experienced in large parts of northern and central Australia this week was a record breaking event.

The hot spell included the highest temperature ever observed in Australia for the second half of March.

Other significant climate statistics from this period:

• Maximum temperatures averaged 5 to 7 °C above average over most of the Gulf Country from 6 to 19 March
• Temperature records approached or set on 19 March, including:
  • Northern Territory and Queensland—hottest area-averaged March day on record
  • Birdsville—highest temperature ever recorded in Australia for second half of March; 46.5 °C
  • Jervois—highest maximum temperature for March for the Northern Territory; 44.0 °C
  • Moomba—hottest ever for South Australia this far into autumn; 45.4 °C
  • To view the Bureau’s full climate statement click here